Photo of Audrey Silverman Foote, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Audrey Silverman Foote
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in the East Bay for over 30 years, providing psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, adolescents, and groups. I work from a holistic perspective, creating a safe environment to encourage the therapeutic process. I specialize in working with: relationship issues, recovery from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and other childhood traumas; depression; anxiety, low self esteem; codependency issues; parenting concerns; compulsive eating patterns; body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness, and perinatal loss. I integrate in-depth psychotherapy with EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Sand Tray, and Dream Work.
I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in the East Bay for over 30 years, providing psychotherapy for adults, couples, families, adolescents, and groups. I work from a holistic perspective, creating a safe environment to encourage the therapeutic process. I specialize in working with: relationship issues, recovery from sexual, physical, and emotional abuse and other childhood traumas; depression; anxiety, low self esteem; codependency issues; parenting concerns; compulsive eating patterns; body image dissatisfaction, chronic illness, and perinatal loss. I integrate in-depth psychotherapy with EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Jungian Sand Tray, and Dream Work.
(925) 892-3864 View (925) 892-3864
Photo of Zuri Montgomery, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Contra Costa County, CA
Zuri Montgomery
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients in crisis stabilization, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, miscommunication, emotional awareness, trauma, and many more experiences.
Do you find life to be draining at times? Waking up angry or anxious with no clear reason why? Experiencing the many stressors of life can become exhausting when you don’t have proper support. I can help provide deeper support that will encourage you to expand your capacity and learn to cope via healthy strategies that we come up with together.
I have worked with clients in crisis stabilization, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, miscommunication, emotional awareness, trauma, and many more experiences.
Do you find life to be draining at times? Waking up angry or anxious with no clear reason why? Experiencing the many stressors of life can become exhausting when you don’t have proper support. I can help provide deeper support that will encourage you to expand your capacity and learn to cope via healthy strategies that we come up with together.
(925) 332-0886 View (925) 332-0886
Photo of Altaf Bhimji, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Altaf Bhimji
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
You may have a goal of living a meaningful life in all of its richness - and are seeking help with mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or somatic concerns. Childhood or long ago emotional concerns may continue to impact present day relationships, and/or day to day life. Or, perhaps, more recent incident(s) of stress or significant strain? A collaborative person-centered approach can help with self-reflection and exploring your life experiences, while working towards your goals, and healing.
You may have a goal of living a meaningful life in all of its richness - and are seeking help with mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or somatic concerns. Childhood or long ago emotional concerns may continue to impact present day relationships, and/or day to day life. Or, perhaps, more recent incident(s) of stress or significant strain? A collaborative person-centered approach can help with self-reflection and exploring your life experiences, while working towards your goals, and healing.
(510) 422-1805 View (510) 422-1805
Photo of Cienna Bancroft, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Cienna Bancroft
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Concord, CA 94521
I have the most experience with common concerns such as depression/anxiety/life stressors.
My name is Cienna Bancroft LMFT 123658. I am a Humanistic therapist and often adapt my approach to what works for my clients. I work with adults and teens primarily and see individuals, couples, families, and all relationship styles. I have experience in Humanistic therapy mostly. However, I also have used CBT, DBT, and Experiential theories when working with individuals. When working with couples/families I have used EFT and Gottman styles as well. I like to tailor my approach to what the client comes in with and go from there.
I have the most experience with common concerns such as depression/anxiety/life stressors.
My name is Cienna Bancroft LMFT 123658. I am a Humanistic therapist and often adapt my approach to what works for my clients. I work with adults and teens primarily and see individuals, couples, families, and all relationship styles. I have experience in Humanistic therapy mostly. However, I also have used CBT, DBT, and Experiential theories when working with individuals. When working with couples/families I have used EFT and Gottman styles as well. I like to tailor my approach to what the client comes in with and go from there.
(925) 397-1802 View (925) 397-1802
Photo of Brandy Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Brandy Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburg, CA 94565
My name is Brandy Smith, LCSW, LICSW. I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed to practice independently in both California and Rhode Island. I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, panic disorder, anxiety, or chronic low self-esteem. I am a United States Veteran and have special expertise in working with Active-Duty Military and Veterans. I am a client centered therapist who uses an integrative approach. I pull from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness techniques, DBT Skills, and EMDR to best support you.
My name is Brandy Smith, LCSW, LICSW. I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed to practice independently in both California and Rhode Island. I work with individuals who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, panic disorder, anxiety, or chronic low self-esteem. I am a United States Veteran and have special expertise in working with Active-Duty Military and Veterans. I am a client centered therapist who uses an integrative approach. I pull from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness techniques, DBT Skills, and EMDR to best support you.
(925) 567-2791 View (925) 567-2791
Photo of Cynthia Liuska, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Cynthia Liuska
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
I work with depression, bipolar, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions and substance abuse.
What would it be like to feel at home in your body, in your mind, and in your heart? How would it feel to truly inhabit your life, with a greater sense of aliveness, ease, and connection? From my experience working with hundreds of clients from all walks of life, I know that difficult times can become a doorway to healing, change and greater connection with one's true self. I have a warm, collaborative approach and will support you in healing the wounds of the past and making inner and outer changes needed for a more fulfilling life.
I work with depression, bipolar, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions and substance abuse.
What would it be like to feel at home in your body, in your mind, and in your heart? How would it feel to truly inhabit your life, with a greater sense of aliveness, ease, and connection? From my experience working with hundreds of clients from all walks of life, I know that difficult times can become a doorway to healing, change and greater connection with one's true self. I have a warm, collaborative approach and will support you in healing the wounds of the past and making inner and outer changes needed for a more fulfilling life.
(628) 333-2192 View (628) 333-2192
Photo of Feyi Momoh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Feyi Momoh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
Hello There! Thank you for joining me in this space. I understand how difficult it can be to initiate first contact when seeking therapy. I believe that the first step is often the most challenging but your decision to show up today is half the battle. Whether you are struggling to adjust to life transitions, experiencing depression, anxiety, grief & loss, relationship conflict, or trauma, there is hope and things can improve. I aim to help you discover your true self and your strengths while adjusting to life’s challenges. Allow me to guide you as we undertake this process together.
Hello There! Thank you for joining me in this space. I understand how difficult it can be to initiate first contact when seeking therapy. I believe that the first step is often the most challenging but your decision to show up today is half the battle. Whether you are struggling to adjust to life transitions, experiencing depression, anxiety, grief & loss, relationship conflict, or trauma, there is hope and things can improve. I aim to help you discover your true self and your strengths while adjusting to life’s challenges. Allow me to guide you as we undertake this process together.
(925) 406-3068 View (925) 406-3068
Photo of Ines M Vaniman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Ines M Vaniman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette, CA 94549
I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and families with different problems like stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions and trauma.
There are so many different reasons to seek therapy and it is my job to get you to where you want to get, as quickly as possible. I am a down to earth, experienced therapist. I use scientifically proven approaches, based on the needs and preferences of my patients. I focus on building strong relationships and providing a space where we can develop and implement a plan to make meaningful change happen. I have over 15 years of experience working in this field and feel very passionate about this work.
I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and families with different problems like stress, depression, anxiety, life transitions and trauma.
There are so many different reasons to seek therapy and it is my job to get you to where you want to get, as quickly as possible. I am a down to earth, experienced therapist. I use scientifically proven approaches, based on the needs and preferences of my patients. I focus on building strong relationships and providing a space where we can develop and implement a plan to make meaningful change happen. I have over 15 years of experience working in this field and feel very passionate about this work.
(925) 246-2964 View (925) 246-2964
Photo of Lee Marchesani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Lee Marchesani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
In a warm, genuine, and respectful environment, I help clients to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, create and maintain satisfying relationships, work through issues of grief and loss, trauma, and resolve the often-debilitating symptoms of PTSD. I am experienced in helping clients resolve family of origin problems, relational and family issues, and enhancing communication skills. In collaboration with clients, I use a variety of techniques tailored to meet clients' needs and to help clients achieve their goals. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing).
In a warm, genuine, and respectful environment, I help clients to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, create and maintain satisfying relationships, work through issues of grief and loss, trauma, and resolve the often-debilitating symptoms of PTSD. I am experienced in helping clients resolve family of origin problems, relational and family issues, and enhancing communication skills. In collaboration with clients, I use a variety of techniques tailored to meet clients' needs and to help clients achieve their goals. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing).
(855) 520-7673 View (855) 520-7673
Photo of Monique Walia, Psychologist in Contra Costa County, CA
Monique Walia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94598  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with patients seeking treatment for eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relational problems, ADHD and trauma.
If you are looking for change, support and a companion on your journey to self-discovery and growth, I would be honored to facilitate that for you. If you are reading this, chances are, you or someone you love is in pain. Pain can be expressed in many different ways: isolation, destructive/difficult relationships, drug use, overworking, overeating, over exercising, overcommitting, restricting food, negative self talk, self criticism, self harm,etc. I seek to empower you to change what you have identified as a problem, but I also seek to remind you of your strengths.
I specialize in working with patients seeking treatment for eating disorders, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relational problems, ADHD and trauma.
If you are looking for change, support and a companion on your journey to self-discovery and growth, I would be honored to facilitate that for you. If you are reading this, chances are, you or someone you love is in pain. Pain can be expressed in many different ways: isolation, destructive/difficult relationships, drug use, overworking, overeating, over exercising, overcommitting, restricting food, negative self talk, self criticism, self harm,etc. I seek to empower you to change what you have identified as a problem, but I also seek to remind you of your strengths.
(925) 515-5010 View (925) 515-5010
Photo of Aza Tetelman, Psychologist in Contra Costa County, CA
Aza Tetelman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563  (Online Only)
Dr. Aza Tetelman is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, inter-generational conflicts and acculturation difficulties. She enjoys facilitating self-understanding via bibliotherapy techniques, whether through the use of novels, self-help books, comics, or other media. She also believes that preventative care is just as important as healing in the aftermath of life challenges. Her clinical approach is warm and attentive, and takes on relational, dialectic, and insight-oriented approaches to treatment.
Dr. Aza Tetelman is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, inter-generational conflicts and acculturation difficulties. She enjoys facilitating self-understanding via bibliotherapy techniques, whether through the use of novels, self-help books, comics, or other media. She also believes that preventative care is just as important as healing in the aftermath of life challenges. Her clinical approach is warm and attentive, and takes on relational, dialectic, and insight-oriented approaches to treatment.
(415) 449-1861 View (415) 449-1861
Photo of Megan Bradley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Megan Bradley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
), with various presenting issues, such as, trauma, bereavement, self-emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, adjusting to an illness and/or disability, and marital discord.
During stressful times, constant worrying, anxiety, anger, and sadness surfaces and causes disruption with relationships, sleep, eating habits, and health. I strongly believe in the mind and body connection and, with help, stress can be an opportunity for emotional growth. I utilize my clinical experience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions to motivate clients and families towards their own emotional growth. I tailor various therapeutic approaches according to what works for my client and what my client needs to meet their goals.
), with various presenting issues, such as, trauma, bereavement, self-emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, adjusting to an illness and/or disability, and marital discord.
During stressful times, constant worrying, anxiety, anger, and sadness surfaces and causes disruption with relationships, sleep, eating habits, and health. I strongly believe in the mind and body connection and, with help, stress can be an opportunity for emotional growth. I utilize my clinical experience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions to motivate clients and families towards their own emotional growth. I tailor various therapeutic approaches according to what works for my client and what my client needs to meet their goals.
(925) 318-9684 View (925) 318-9684
Photo of Katie Malone, TheraThrive Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Katie Malone, TheraThrive Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I also have a background in working with the LGBTQ+ community, eating differences, anxiety, and depression.
Do you, or your child, struggle with intense emotions? Do either of you spend time feeling alone and searching for meaning? Maybe you find it difficult to increase your sense of self-worth, and wonder what to do? If any of these questions resonate with you, then you have come to the right place. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (99859) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (4606), and I genuinely enjoy and feel honored to work with each of my clients, and provide them with the support they need to meet their goals.
I also have a background in working with the LGBTQ+ community, eating differences, anxiety, and depression.
Do you, or your child, struggle with intense emotions? Do either of you spend time feeling alone and searching for meaning? Maybe you find it difficult to increase your sense of self-worth, and wonder what to do? If any of these questions resonate with you, then you have come to the right place. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (99859) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (4606), and I genuinely enjoy and feel honored to work with each of my clients, and provide them with the support they need to meet their goals.
(925) 966-2577 x2 View (925) 966-2577 x2
Photo of Sharon Go, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Sharon Go
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598  (Online Only)
Building relationships is a strength of mine and I love using that as a vehicle for healing and personal growth. I work with adolescents, young adults, families and couples in exploring past trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and relational issues. I value open communication and a willingness to be vulnerable as the keys to growth and change!
Building relationships is a strength of mine and I love using that as a vehicle for healing and personal growth. I work with adolescents, young adults, families and couples in exploring past trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and relational issues. I value open communication and a willingness to be vulnerable as the keys to growth and change!
(415) 993-7203 View (415) 993-7203
Photo of Chelsie Crilly, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Contra Costa County, CA
Chelsie Crilly
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lafayette, CA 94549
I specialize in working with ADHD, HSP, and ASD. Being in our bodies- and being in our world- can be very difficult. This is especially true when when you're a highly sensitive person. My typical client often hears "you're being too much" while also dreading the feeling of not "being enough". I'm here to take a deep dive into what's making you feel like "too much" and highlight the ways you are "just enough for the right people". Typically, my client's goals are to live more comfortably in their sensitive skin, find liberation from shame, and better manage depression and anxiety.
I specialize in working with ADHD, HSP, and ASD. Being in our bodies- and being in our world- can be very difficult. This is especially true when when you're a highly sensitive person. My typical client often hears "you're being too much" while also dreading the feeling of not "being enough". I'm here to take a deep dive into what's making you feel like "too much" and highlight the ways you are "just enough for the right people". Typically, my client's goals are to live more comfortably in their sensitive skin, find liberation from shame, and better manage depression and anxiety.
(925) 744-6783 x8 View (925) 744-6783 x8
Photo of Victoria K Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Victoria K Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598  (Online Only)
Anxiety, depression, and past traumas can stand in the way of healthy, balanced relationships. You may feel like you're standing in your own way and second guessing yourself all the time. You may have noticed uncontrollable negative self talk that spirals and seems to take on a life of it's own. These behaviors create a cycle of anxiety and depression that's hard to battle. With my help you will learn skills to combat anxiety, depression, to stop the negative self talk, to work through past traumas, and to gain confidence. In the process you will build healthy, balanced relationships and live a more fulfilling life.
Anxiety, depression, and past traumas can stand in the way of healthy, balanced relationships. You may feel like you're standing in your own way and second guessing yourself all the time. You may have noticed uncontrollable negative self talk that spirals and seems to take on a life of it's own. These behaviors create a cycle of anxiety and depression that's hard to battle. With my help you will learn skills to combat anxiety, depression, to stop the negative self talk, to work through past traumas, and to gain confidence. In the process you will build healthy, balanced relationships and live a more fulfilling life.
(925) 326-6718 View (925) 326-6718
Photo of Kellee Cathey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Kellee Cathey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Antioch, CA 94531  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with Individuals, Couples, and Families and have knowledge, training, and experience in a multitude of issues from anxiety and depression to psychosis.
Let's talk about whatever you may need help with. I offer a free Initial Consultation to discuss your issues and provide support immediately. I also enjoy providing support via e-mail, texting, and by phone at no cost to you between sessions. I provide safety and warmth with a psychodynamic approach to increase awareness and facilitate healing. Call or e-mail today so we can connect and I can provide the support you've been needing. I am compassionate, yet direct, and enjoy guiding others in locating their happiness.
I enjoy working with Individuals, Couples, and Families and have knowledge, training, and experience in a multitude of issues from anxiety and depression to psychosis.
Let's talk about whatever you may need help with. I offer a free Initial Consultation to discuss your issues and provide support immediately. I also enjoy providing support via e-mail, texting, and by phone at no cost to you between sessions. I provide safety and warmth with a psychodynamic approach to increase awareness and facilitate healing. Call or e-mail today so we can connect and I can provide the support you've been needing. I am compassionate, yet direct, and enjoy guiding others in locating their happiness.
(510) 328-4006 View (510) 328-4006
Photo of Carla Guillaume, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Carla Guillaume
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
If you've experienced trauma, PTSD, anxiety, or depression, seeking the expertise of a therapist who specializes in this field can be a transformative step towards healing and recovery.
Life's challenges can often leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years of experience, I'm here to offer you a safe and compassionate space to explore your journey towards well-being. Whether you've experienced trauma, grapple with depression, anxiety, or face other life hurdles, I'm committed to guiding you towards a brighter future. My expertise lies in helping adolescents and adults heal from the past, build resilience, and discover their inner strength. Let's embark on this transformative journey together, where you can discover healing, hope, and happiness.
If you've experienced trauma, PTSD, anxiety, or depression, seeking the expertise of a therapist who specializes in this field can be a transformative step towards healing and recovery.
Life's challenges can often leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years of experience, I'm here to offer you a safe and compassionate space to explore your journey towards well-being. Whether you've experienced trauma, grapple with depression, anxiety, or face other life hurdles, I'm committed to guiding you towards a brighter future. My expertise lies in helping adolescents and adults heal from the past, build resilience, and discover their inner strength. Let's embark on this transformative journey together, where you can discover healing, hope, and happiness.
(925) 940-1147 View (925) 940-1147
Photo of Grace Nichols, Marriage & Family Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Grace Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Ramon, CA 94583
My greatest desire is for you to flourish and be free. Change is always difficult - even good change. If you need support during any transitional phase of life, I am happy to help. I have specific training and experience in many realms, including: young adult transitions & adjustment, depression & anxiety, mothering & post-partum, parenting children with disabilities, trauma & abuse, gender identity, sexual orientation, spiritual growth, religious harm, & anti-racism. I work with young adults, adults, committed partners, gender non-conforming, intersex, & trans individuals, families, caregivers, empaths & highly sensitive people.
My greatest desire is for you to flourish and be free. Change is always difficult - even good change. If you need support during any transitional phase of life, I am happy to help. I have specific training and experience in many realms, including: young adult transitions & adjustment, depression & anxiety, mothering & post-partum, parenting children with disabilities, trauma & abuse, gender identity, sexual orientation, spiritual growth, religious harm, & anti-racism. I work with young adults, adults, committed partners, gender non-conforming, intersex, & trans individuals, families, caregivers, empaths & highly sensitive people.
(925) 854-4257 View (925) 854-4257
Photo of Steven East, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Contra Costa County, CA
Steven East
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
My name is Steven East. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Certified Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR) Therapist. I help clients struggling with Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, Addiction, Thought Disorders, Anger, Grief, Co-dependency, Family and Marital Discord, My approach is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
My name is Steven East. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and a Certified Eye Movement Reprocessing Desensitization (EMDR) Therapist. I help clients struggling with Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, Addiction, Thought Disorders, Anger, Grief, Co-dependency, Family and Marital Discord, My approach is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing.
(925) 307-8972 View (925) 307-8972

See more therapy options for Contra Costa County

Depression Therapists

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.